Diaphragmatic paralysis

Case contributed by Mostafa Elfeky
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Dyspnea. History of right breast cancer.

Patient Data

Age: 40 years
Gender: Female
ct

Marked elevation of left hemidiaphragm with markedly thinned out muscle thickness with elevation of left-sided abdominal contents at the lower thoracic cavity.

Bilateral large elastofibroma dorsi.

Right mastectomy for breast cancer.

Case Discussion

The marked elevation of left hemidiaphragm and thinned out muscle thickness are in favor of diaphragmatic paralysis. The cause is unknown in this case. Most cases of diaphragmatic paralysis are idiopathic. Unlike diaphragmatic eventration, the entire left hemidiaphragm is affected.

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